prestress

[ pree-stres ]
/ priˈstrɛs /

verb (used with object)

(in certain concrete construction) to apply stress to (reinforcing strands) before subjecting to a load.
to make (a concrete member) with prestressed reinforcing strands.

Origin of prestress

First recorded in 1930–35; pre- + stress

British Dictionary definitions for prestress

prestress
/ (ˌpriːˈstrɛs) /

verb

(tr) to apply tensile stress to (the steel cables, wires, etc, of a precast concrete part) before the load is applied